LASIK Eye Surgery Side Effects
Most people notice a great improvement in their vision immediately upon completion of their LASIK eye surgery. However, like many different types of surgeries, there is some risk of complications with LASIK vision correction.
Dry eyes – This is the most common side effect, which usually becomess less of a problem over time. Patients are advised to use rewetting drops multiple times per day as needed over the next year after LASIK eye surgery.
Infection – This is a side effect patients are vulnerable during the first stages of healing. Oral or topical antibiotics may be given to combat the problem. It is very important for the people who have had LASIK eye surgery to follow post-operative care directions to prevent infection.
Poor Night Vision – Many nearsighted individuals experience poor night vision immediately following this surgery. People typically experience glare or haloes for anywhere from three days to six months. This is a side effect that cannot be fixed by surgery, but usually improves over time.
Regression – This is when the eye heals itself back to the state it was in before the correction. Usually this shift in vision is minimal and a second LASIK procedure can be performed to correct it. It is more common in severe cases of myopia.
Undercorrection – This is the most common failure in terms of failing to correct the refraction disorder. A second LASIK eye surgery session will be conducted within three to six months after the initial operation. Nearsighted patients who have been under corrected will notice that objects in a distance are still not perfectly clear. Farsighted patients will notice that near objects are not totally in focus.
Overcorrection – This occurs if the cornea reverts back to its original shape during healing. Contacts may be worn to prevent or reverse this or a second surgery will be conducted three to six months after the first operation. The risk of overcorrection after LASIK eye surgery is very low. Nearsighted patients will become farsighted and will notice immediately that they can no longer see near objects as well. Farsighted patients will become nearsighted and will notice immediately that they can no longer see objects at a distance clearly.
Corneal Haze – Vision may be hazy. The more of a correction on you eye that is needed the more chance you will have of developing a haze. This may be corrected with a second surgery.
Free Flap – Sometimes the flap of the cornea that is cut with laser becomes completely off. If this happens the surgery is continued with and the flap repositioned properly immediately after the LASIK eye surgery without any side effects.
Epithelial ingrowths – This happens if epithelia tissue grows underneath the flap causing astigmatism and interference with vision. A second operation may be required to fix this.
The LASIK Review can help you find a qualified LASIK surgeon who will thoroughly explain the side effects that are commonly experienced after LASIK eye surgery. Click here to schedule a free LASIK consultation appointment, or contact us to have a LASIK Eye Surgery center contact you
